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Monday, March 30, 2015

Since 1969, Pav's Creamery has been serving out delicious signature ice creams, yogurt, sorbet, gelato, and "kustard" in the Portage Lakes area near Akron in Summit County. This old fashioned ice cream stand is not your typical dessert shop - it has been voted as “Best Ice Cream” in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 by various publications such as Akron Beacon Journal’s “Beacon’s Best” and the Akron Canton “Hot List” awards.

Now, after over 45 years in the business, Pav's Creamery is opening its second location in the nearby city of Green, Ohio, as part of the new Heritage Crossing Plaza. This state-of-the-art facility will feature all of the classic favorites from the original Pav's, along with exciting new food offerings, a 2,000 square foot patio, an outdoor fire pit, and both indoor and outdoor seating.

The new location is set for a soft opening on April 1, 2015. But, OHventures was invited to a sneak peek pre-party on March 27. The interior had an upscale and even fancy feel to it, with a sophisticated pink and gray color scheme. The shop was buzzing with hungry locals eager to taste the new food items that were being cooked up for the VIP guests.

Like an assembly line, food and drinks were flowing out for us to sample, and we didn't miss a beat. A welcome surprise was that the new Pav's Creamery will be featuring mouth-watering flatbreads that are creative and exciting.

The Vegetarian Flatbread

I tried the vegetarian flatbread with grilled veggies & mozzarella; the margarita flatbread with tomato, basil and olive oil; the chorizo and poblano flatbread with queso, Monterey Jack cheese, chorizo, and cilatro; and the BBQ chicken flatbread with red onion, roasted red pepper, provolone and tomato sauce. Yes, I tried ALL of those - I couldn't turn any of them down because they were the best looking (and best tasting) pizzas I had seen in a long time.

In addition to multiple other flatbread creations, the menu will also feature Pav's homemade waffles, including a Sriracha fried chicken and waffles creation complete with Ohio maple butter!

Devouring the Brownie Fudge Sundae

Of course, there is no shortage of delectable desserts at Pav's. Guests can look forward to the absolutely amazing baklava sundae, and the perfectly executed brownie fudge sundae!

Hard Root Beer Float!

But what will truly be the main thing that keeps me coming back to Pav's is that it has a full fledged liquor license, ready to whip up some alcoholic versions of your favorite ice cream shakes! Some of the clever concoctions with which you can choose to imbibe at Pav's are: the Hard Root Beer Float, and the Bananas Foster Shake.

Pav's is always on the cutting edge of cool when it comes to ice cream in Northeast Ohio. Its ice creams can be featured at the wildly popular Gervasi Vineyards and Italian Bistro, and Pav's has even teamed up with the acclaimed Hoppin' Frog Brewery to create a Christmas Beer Ice Cream. Add to that the fact that you can order Nutella ice cream (I don't think there is anything more popular than Nutella on the market right now), glazed donuts dipped in chocolate, and did I mention a liquor license?

Sunday, March 29, 2015

On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being so devoted that you'd get an Ohio tattoo (I am considering it), how hardcore of an Ohio fan are you? We aren't talking Ohio State football (although we are big-time Buckeyes fans), or Ohio University (although Athens is one of the coolest college towns around), but we are talking the entire state of Ohio.

If you are a tried and true lover of this great state, from Lake Erie to the Ohio River, from Ashtabula to Cincinnati, then here are some products that you can get to Ohio-fy Your Life. And, yes, all of these are in my house!

1. Ohio Thread Art: Pictured at the beginning of this post, this thread art in the shape of Ohio is hanging proudly in my bedroom. Made by a friend at Threaded State(based in Cincinnati), you too can get a customized piece of Ohio thread art. Choose your color, your design, and whether or not you want to highlight a special city! You can also learn to make your own.

2. Milk Chocolate Ohio: Okay, so this was in my house, before I devoured it. Just in time for Easter (or whatever the closest holiday is at the time you are reading this), I purchased this tasty milk chocolate shaped like Ohio from Hartville Chocolate Factoryin Stark County. You can also get loads of other goodies, such as chocolate covered strawberries and chocolate dipped Oreos, which are not shaped like Ohio, but taste pretty awesome nonetheless.

3. Ohio BibFolio: If you are a runner, and you live in Ohio (or do a lot of races in Ohio), then this handy dandy contraption is for you. It's called a "BibFolio," and it holds all of your race number bibs inside! Since I have dozens and dozens of bibs from races, this was a no-brainer. You can get a ton of different designs, but how can you pass up the RUN OHIO design?!

4. Ohio Ink Art: This Ohio ink art was special made for OHventures by our pal Matt of MATTHEWDYEstudio in Canton. Browse his site to see what artwork he has on sale. Odds are, there are some Ohio pieces available - or, if not, he would be willing to whip one up for you! Tell him I sent ya.

5. Ohio Cutting Board: I am quite the chef these days (don't believe me, then stop over for some award winning chili or my specialty shrimp & cheesy grits). So, a trusty bamboo cutting board in the shape of Ohio is a dream for me. Pictured, you can see I had a little fun and added some cut carrots on my three "homes" of Columbus, Akron/Canton, and Youngstown (Hubbard). This find was thanks to the Totally Bamboo brand sold at Bed Bath & Beyond.

6. Ohio Pocket T-Shirt: This is one of my favorite Ohio-themed items I own (can't you tell by the goofy face I am making while modeling it in the picture above?). The reason I love it so much is because of the story it tells. This shirt is from a new grassroots company in Akron called Neighbors Apparel. All shirts and accessories are made by refugee women living in Akron. Plus, a portion of the profits goes towards giving these refugee women a living wage, and some is donated to help Urban Vision, an inner-city mission in Akron. Become a neighbor today by getting one of these shirts!

7. Rubber City Golf Balls: And while we are in Akron, we may as well put a plug in for Rubber City Clothing, which sells, among other things, these golf balls donning - what else? - the shape of the state of Ohio! It's on my bucket list to hit the links and become a better golfer, so perhaps these balls will be good luck? If not, there's always other great Ohio-themed clothing and items at Rubber City Clothing as well!

8. #OHIO T-Shirt: Ah, yes. I couldn't ever pass up a shirt such as this. It incorporates a hashtag AND Ohio's historical year of settlement? The irony! The cheekiness! The Ohio-ness! I can't even. I got this gem at the Ohio-themed boutique in downtown Columbus called State & Third(found at the Shops on Capital Square). The vendor of the shirt is Lamp Apparel.

Stay tuned for more ways to Ohio-fy Your Life! Have items to add to our Ohio collection, send us an emailto let us know!

Friday, March 27, 2015

Whenever I think of Southeast Ohio, Marietta is the first city that pops into my head. It is the county seat of Washington County and is located right at the confluence of the Ohio River and Muskingum River. Its neighbor to the east and south is West Virginia, with a population of just over 14,000 Ohioans.

Marietta is in the heart of Appalachian Ohio, with rolling hills full of lush green forest and twisting roads (such as Interstate 77, which runs right through it). It has a rich history, as it served as a station on the Underground Railroad, and was a site of Hopewell Native American mounds.

The city continues to make history with truly one-of-a-kind spots perfect for a casual and low-key Ohio day trip that is still unique and memorable! Below is a list of 8 Things To Do on a Day Trip to Marietta!

1. Marietta Brewing Company (167 Front Street): When traveling to Marietta for work, I asked locals where the best place would be to grab some lunch. I was given a hearty response of "The Marietta Brewing Company." I made my way through the old quaint roadways of this river town to the brewpub, which was easy to spot with the copper plated brew kettles lining the storefront. I had an amazing loaded mac and grilled cheese sandwich, and drooled over the beer selections (some with fun southern-Ohio themed names like Mount Builder's Brown Ale, Front Street Pale Ale, and Marietta Barleywine).
2. Ohio Riverfront Park: Located right alongside the shores of the Ohio River, where the 3rd Street bridge crosses into West Virginia, the Ohio Riverfront Park is perfect for picnics and outdoor recreation. Great for birding!

3. East Muskingum Park (302 Front Street):A city owned park featuring a gazebo, performance pavilion, and the "Start Westward" monument, a statue dedicated to pioneers who journeyed to Marietta in 1788 and established it as the first permanent settlement of the Northwest Territory. See, I told you there was a lot of history in Marietta! There is also a portion of The River Trail (see below)4. Marietta River Trail: The Marietta River Trail runs along the Muskingum River for 3.4 miles through the city and is located just across the Ohio River from West Virginia. So, you can imagine how great the scenery is here! The trail is asphalt and is perfect for running, biking or strolling. There is a trail entrance at East Muskingum Park, and also at Indian Acres Park. A cool feature is that part of the trail is an old railroad trestle that was converted for pedestrian use!
5. Valley Gem Sternwheeler: Marietta is the site of the annual Ohio River Sternwheel Festival the weekend after Labor Day (2015 will be the 40th anniversary of the event). Seasonally, you can hitch a ride on the Valley Gem Sternwheeler (pictured on the river in the photo above), which is docked at the Washington Street landing. A ride on this awesome paddle-wheel boat will give you a glimpse of what river life is like. You can take a narrated sightseeing tour for just $14 on most days from 12-1:30 PM, or take part in a number of dinner cruises (including a murder mystery dinner). There are also special day-long or multi-day-long trips planned to Pittsburgh (PA), Zanesville (OH), Wheeling (WV), and Blennerhasset Island.

Photo by D. Rose for OHventures

6. Marietta Adventure Company(219-B Second Street): A full-service bike and kayak shop with specialized bikes plus Perception, Dagger, and Wilderness Systems kayaks. They also offer bicycle service and kayak rentals & shuttle service, meaning they can get you out there for anything from multi-day river and trail adventures to a fun afternoon with the family. They will haul you up stream and pick you up at the finish! Rock climbing gear also available!7. Marietta Soda Fountain Museum(109 Maple Street): Even though most people in Ohio refer to it as "pop" rather than "soda," the Marietta Soda Museum is dedicated 100% to the fizzy bubbly drink. Most prominently featured is Coca Cola - everything from old advertisements to old vending machines, vintage posters, and other collectibles. Definitely a sight to see.

8. Levee House(127 Ohio Street): If you haven't caught on, it's all about the river in Marietta. So what better place to get dinner than at the fine dining establishment Levee House that overlooks the Ohio River?

Thursday, March 26, 2015

VeloSano, Latin for “swift cure,” is an annual community fundraiser for cancer research. At its core, it’s a
cycling event where riders commit to raise a pre-determined dollar amount by requesting support from
personal contacts. Rides start and finish in downtown Cleveland. Whether you ride, volunteer or
donate, 100% of the dollars raised by participants benefits cancer research at Cleveland Clinic.

VeloSano is more than a fundraising event. It’s more than simply a bike ride. VeloSano is a movement with the goal of bringing an entire community together to help one another.

The biking event will take place over the weekend of July 17-19, 2015. A kickoff party will take place Friday, July 17, and bicyclists will begin their treks the following morning. There are various distances one can choose to ride - Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a casual biker, VeloSano has an option for you. There is a 12-mile fun ride, 25-mile fun ride, 50-mile Challenge, 100-mile Challenge, 179-mile Two-Day Ultimate Challenge, and a 207-mile Two-Day Ultimate Challenge.

You can register today by visiting the VeloSano site. Registration includes 2 Kickoff Party tickets, all you can eat/drink during event weekend, goodie bag, VeloSano bike jersey for 25-mile Riders and above
(12-mile Riders receive a VeloSano Sports Performance Shirt), support along the routes, overnight accommodations for Two-Day Riders and more!

I have chosen to ride the 50-Mile Challenge. Heading east from downtown Cleveland, this ride takes you past Cleveland Clinic Main Campus to Fairmount Boulevard and beautiful Shaker Heights, through South Chagrin Reservation, and climbing out of the Chagrin River Valley before it loops back and ends at Mall B with a Finish Line Celebration.

I’ve joined the movement in VeloSano, and I need your help to raise money for the cause. Any amount, big or small, from $5 to $25 to $100 to even more would be so much appreciated! Again, 100% of the money I raise will support lifesaving cancer research at Cleveland Clinic. The goal is to bring sustainable funding to cancer research by enlisting the passion and energy of thousands of people who wish to give back…including YOU! How far will you go for the cure?

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Torchbearers of Akron is in year #9 of AkRun & Crawl & they’re mixing it up a little!

The 5K run follows the scenic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail through the Merriman Valley before joining your friends for a pub crawl to celebrate your finish in style with adult beverages at a handful of nearby watering holes. You will receive a special-made customized mug to fill up with $2 draught specials during the crawl, along with free food and other goodies.

For participants who register by Wednesday, May 27, 2015, a special race bag pick-up will be held at Second Sole Akron on Friday, May 29 from 5-7 PM, 1466 North Portage Path, Akron, OH 44313. Shirt sizes cannot be guaranteed. No refunds available for race registration.Last day to register online is Wednesday, May 27, 2015 by 4:00 PM!

Day-of race registration begins at 3:30 PM, with a 5:00 PM race start in front of BCG & Co., located at 1735 Merriman Road in Akron. The pub crawl will kick off directly after the race, around 6:00 PM at Johnny J's Pub, located in the Liberty Commons Shopping Plaza at 1282 Weathervane Lane, Akron, OH 44313. Race results and prizes will also be announced at this location. Additional crawl stops include Shots Bar and Woody's Tavern.

Planning on posting about this event? Use the hashtag #AkRunRemix and help us get the word out!

Hear Northeast Ohio’s hottest singers perform songs by Ohio’s biggest music legends, as the Music Box Supper Club presents “Ohio’s Greatest Hits” on Thursday, April 16, 2015. This special event is part of the Music Box’s “Rock Week: Decade by Decade,” celebrating the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction coming back to Cleveland!

“Ohio has a long, rich history of producing talented musicians, and the list of hits songs from those artists is incredibly diverse. I was thrilled to be asked to put this show together for my friends at The Music Box,” said event curator Ryan Humbert. “We have a fantastic line-up of guest singers from all over Northeast Ohio. It’s going to be a great show – and we might even have few surprises in store! ”

“Ohio’s Greatest Hits” is presented in partnership with The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Harvest For Hunger, The Cleveland Scene, The Cleveland Metroparks and The Great Lakes Brewing Co.

The Music Box Supper Club is located in The Flats (next to Shooters and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium) at 1148 Main Ave. in downtown Cleveland. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with an 8:00 p.m. show time.

Tickets are $20 in advance / $22 the day of the show and are available at the Music Box Supper Club Box Office at 216-242-1250 or online at www.musicboxcle.com

Thursday, March 12, 2015

The All-American Soap Box Derby is truly an all-American pastime. Every July since 1934 (except for the years of World War II), hundreds of youth have flocked to the Derby Downs racetrack in Akron (except for the first year in which is was located in Dayton) to compete in the iconic race.

The All-American Soap Box Derby has in recent years added many other events and programs that allow for other folks to experience the splendor and excitement of Derby Downs.

May 15-16: Gravity Racing Challenge STEM Team Competition, presented by Time Warner Cable - Designed to provide K-12 educators and students with meaningful, project- and standards-based, intercurricular learning opportunities in classroom setting.

June 8–19: Soap Box Derby Summer Camps: High schoolers in STEM schools have the chance to design, construct, race, and showcase their own creations!

September 3: Senior Day, presented by Akron General and The City of Akron - Seniors enjoy lunch, health information booths, health screenings and a trip down Derby Downs in an adult Soap Box Derby car.

Keep an eye out for these events and more ways you might be able to experience Derby Downs. If you are unable to ride, spectators are always welcome!

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Pedal With A Purpose is an annual indoor cycling event to help fund the Akron Area YMCA's Annual Campaign. This year's event took place on Saturday, March 7, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Riverfront YMCA at in Cuyahoga Falls.

Participants were encouraged to collect $20 in pledges for each half hour they cycle. Certified instructors were on-hand with upbeat music to inspire the cyclists and monitor activity.

A silent auction, inflatables, raffle prizes, face painting, and bake sale added to the family fun. Individuals and businesses participated also by underwriting a bicycle or donating a gift basket or raffle prize.

As a member of the Akron leadership group, Torchbearers, I took part in Pedal With A Purpose during a special timeslot dedicated to a competitive heat between Torchbearers and Young Professionals of Akron. We took our spots on the stationary bikes in the spinning class and we pedaled as many miles as possible for a half an hour. The team with the most collective miles would win bragging rights for an entire year (that's a big deal).

I pedaled my arse off (really - my behind was hurting pretty bad after the intense spin class) and was sweating buckets and buckets. My quads were burning every time the instructor had us stand up and pedal. But, in the end, it was all worth it, because not only did I help raise money for the YMCA, I was able to burn a TON of calories and get my rear in gear. And, best of all, the Torchbearers ended up taking home the proverbial gold medal, as we had pedaled the most miles (a cherry on the sundae was that I pedaled more miles than any other participant, but let's not get too cocky LOL).

I really enjoyed my very first spin class, and it is making me really excited for the warm weather to arrive so I can hit the bike trails OUTSIDE!